Former UMass hockey sensation James Marcou is still with San Jose Sharks

The Republican photo by Don TreegerJames Marcou is still with the San Jose Sharks, but is not yet cleared for contact from head injuries.

James Marcou, the high-scoring winger for the University of Massachusetts hockey team who turned pro last season with another year of collegiate eligibility remaining, is not participating in the San Jose Sharks training camp simply because he has not been cleared for contact as the result of post-concussion syndrome as the result of head injuries that forced him to miss half the season.

An early post here incorrectly took his release from training camp to mean that he was let go from the organization. However, Marcou is still a member of the Sharks, and expects to play in Worcester again this season."

"I've been skating all summer, I just haven't been cleared for contact," Marcou said Saturday.

Marcou played last season for the Worcester Sharks of the AHL, and had four goals and 15 assists for 19 points in 41 games.

In his final season at UMass, Marcou registered 11 goals and 40 assists for 51 points.

It's great to hear the likeable Marcou will be back in action, and hopefully soon. All followers and supporters of UMass hockey wish him the best. Naturally, head injuries can't be fooled with, and it's always best to be on the safe side, but his release from the training camp roster is like a baseball player being on the 15-day disabled list.